Is Tesla Really Building a Cybertruck-Inspired SUV?
If you’ve ever wondered whether Tesla might expand its lineup with a full-size, Cybertruck-inspired SUV, you’re not alone. The rumor mill kicked into high gear after eagle-eyed fans spotted what looked like scale models of a three-row CyberSUV in the background of Tesla’s Master Plan IV video. But is this just wishful thinking, or could Tesla actually be prepping its boldest family hauler yet?
What Clues Did Tesla Drop in the Master Plan IV Video?
Tesla’s design process is usually locked down tighter than Fort Knox. That’s why the recent Master Plan IV video raised so many eyebrows. Front and center were clay models of the upcoming Cybercab, but tucked away on a shelf in the background? What appeared to be scale models of a Cybertruck-styled SUV, complete with the angular, stainless steel look that’s become Tesla’s signature.
It’s not the first time Tesla has teased fans with cryptic hints, but this was unusually direct. Historically, Tesla’s biggest launches—think Cybertruck and the second-gen Roadster—have been shrouded in secrecy until their official debuts. So, seeing these models out in the open has sparked a fresh wave of speculation.
How Would a CyberSUV Stand Out in Tesla’s Lineup?
Let’s be honest: Tesla’s current SUV offerings don’t quite scratch the itch for those wanting a full-size, go-anywhere family vehicle. The Model X, while luxurious, is more crossover than true SUV. The Model Y L, meanwhile, is a different animal altogether and may not even make it to the American market.
A CyberSUV could fill that gap. Imagine the Cybertruck’s rugged, wedge-shaped design, but with a three-row interior built for families, road trips, and maybe even a little off-roading. It would likely share key hardware with the Cybertruck—think 48-volt architecture, steer-by-wire, and adaptive suspension—while trading the pickup bed for a more versatile cabin.
This would put Tesla in direct competition with heavy hitters like the Cadillac Escalade IQ, Rivian R1S, and Kia EV9. According to a 2024 report from S&P Global Mobility, full-size electric SUVs are one of the fastest-growing segments in the US, with demand expected to triple by 2027. Clearly, there’s a market hungry for exactly this kind of vehicle.
Could Tesla Really Build It, or Is This Just a Design Study?
Here’s where things get tricky. Tesla’s Q4 2024 Shareholder Deck explicitly stated that no future vehicles would use the Cybertruck’s stainless steel exoskeleton. That’s a pretty big hurdle if you’re hoping for a direct Cybertruck-to-SUV transformation.
But Tesla is nothing if not resourceful. If the company can repurpose the Cybertruck’s underlying chassis and structural design—without the full exoskeleton—it could still deliver a vehicle with that unmistakable Cyber edge. Plus, reusing major components would help Tesla maximize its investment in the Cybertruck’s production lines, which some analysts say are currently underutilized.
Industry experts like Sam Abuelsamid, principal analyst at Guidehouse Insights, point out that modular platforms are the future of automotive manufacturing. If Tesla can adapt its existing tech for a new segment, it could speed up development and keep costs in check. That’s a win-win for both the company and consumers.
What Features Would Set a CyberSUV Apart?
Beyond the bold styling, a CyberSUV would likely pack the latest in Tesla tech. Picture a spacious, three-row interior with advanced infotainment, over-the-air updates, and perhaps even a new take on Tesla’s controversial yoke steering. With the company’s focus on autonomy, expect robust driver-assist features and maybe even a leap forward in self-driving capability.
And let’s not forget the off-road crowd. The Cybertruck’s adaptive suspension and all-wheel drive could translate beautifully to an SUV platform, making it a legitimate rival to traditional adventure vehicles. Tesla could even offer unique accessories—think integrated roof racks or modular storage—to appeal to outdoor enthusiasts.
Why Is Tesla Considering a Full-Size Electric SUV Now?
Timing is everything. The electric SUV market is heating up, and Tesla has watched competitors like Rivian and Kia make big inroads. Meanwhile, consumer preferences are shifting: a 2023 Pew Research Center survey found that 46% of US adults would consider an electric SUV for their next vehicle, compared to just 27% for electric sedans.
Tesla’s move toward a CyberSUV could also signal a broader shift in its design language. If the company leans into the angular, futuristic look across its lineup, it could set a new standard for what electric vehicles can be—bold, functional, and unmistakably Tesla.
What’s the Real Story—Is the CyberSUV Coming or Not?
Right now, the CyberSUV is still in the realm of speculation. Tesla hasn’t officially confirmed any plans, and the company is notorious for keeping its cards close to the vest. Still, the appearance of those scale models in the Master Plan IV video feels like more than just an accident.
If Tesla does greenlight the project, expect a vehicle that shakes up the segment and pushes the boundaries of what an electric SUV can do. And if not? Well, at the very least, it’s a sign that Tesla is thinking big—and isn’t afraid to tease what could be next.
The big takeaway? The future of family vehicles might just look a lot more angular—and a lot more electric. Whether or not the CyberSUV hits the streets, it’s clear that innovation in the EV world isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end.